UFC Fights We Want to See in the Second Half of 2026

The UFC's second-half 2026 slate could feature several dream matchups if the promotion plays its cards right, according to ESPN's latest projections.

Among the most compelling potential bouts are a flyweight clash between Rizin import Kai Asakura and Alexandre Pantoja, a featherweight showdown pitting Ilia Topuria against Paddy Pimblett, and a women's bantamweight superfight between Amanda Nunes and Kayla Harrison. ESPN also floated Bellator-to-UFC crossover Patricio Freire against Max Holloway as a bout that could generate serious buzz.

Van vs. Kape and Other Flyweight Fireworks

At 125 pounds, a potential scrap between Rogerio Bontorin and Kai Kara-France rounds out the flyweight wishlist alongside the Asakura-Pantoja headliner. Both fights would test whether the division's new blood can dethrone established contenders or if the old guard still controls the ladder.

The Topuria-Pimblett matchup represents a clash of styles and personas — the Georgian champion's technical precision against the Liverpool crowd-pleaser's grappling and finishing instincts. Nunes returning to face Harrison would settle the lingering question of whether the PFL star can hang with the greatest women's fighter of all time.

No dates or venues have been confirmed for any of the proposed matchups. The UFC typically builds its second-half calendar around International Fight Week in July and a fall stadium card, making late summer the earliest window for these bouts to materialize.

Reported via:

• ESPN MMA — UFC fights we want to see in the second half of 2026